Injury concerns have plagued the latest Scotland national team announcements, with Celtic defender Kieran Tierney and Norwich City captain Kenny McLean ruled out of the upcoming fixtures. In response, uncapped Blackburn Rovers midfielder Kristi Montgomery has been called up from the under-21 setup to join the squad at their training camp in La Manga, Spain.
Tierney was forced off during Celtic’s defeat to Rangers on Sunday, while McLean suffered a late withdrawal in Norwich’s Championship loss to Bolton. The absences come as the team prepares for the first matches under new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
Pocognoli has taken a distinct approach with his inaugural squad selection, promoting five players receiving their first senior call-ups. Among the debuts are Sevilla striker Robbie Ure, Brondby defender Luis Binks, Celtic’s Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake, and Swansea City’s Stephen Welsh. The decision reflects Pocognoli’s desire to build a fresh foundation, though he emphasized that he would not need to persuade players to commit to the national side.
“I think the most important thing is that I don’t need to convince players to represent the country,” Pocognoli stated. “If I have to convince players to represent Scotland, he will not be there.” He added that the timing was right for these selections based on current performance levels.
A notable return comes for Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who has been recalled five years after his last cap. McBurnie had previously fallen out of favor with former manager Steve Clarke. Pocognoli described the appointment as a “new beginning,” noting the balance between integrating young talents and experienced leaders like McBurnie.
However, the squad faces further setbacks with Napoli confirming that Scott McTominay will undergo surgery for a benign arrhythmia. The midfielder will miss the Nations League campaign but is expected to return after the international break.
Scotland’s Nations League schedule begins with an away match against Slovenia on Saturday, followed by home games against Switzerland and North Macedonia, and a return fixture against Slovenia at Hampden Park later in the campaign.
In other team news, the under-21 squad has also been revealed under new head coach Tony Docherty, who replaced Scot Gemmill. The U21 roster features seven uncapped players, including 16-year-old forward Kyle Glasgow. The backroom team for the senior side includes Alan Irvine as assistant, alongside new appointees Luke Benstead and Cameron Campbell.
I’m skeptical about this ‘new beginning’ slogan. Results matter more than press conference quotes.
McBurnie’s recall makes sense. He deserves another chance after five years on the shelf.
Five debutants in one squad? That’s a huge gamble for a Nations League campaign.
Scott McTominay needing surgery is terrible news. Our midfield depth is already questioned.
Good to see Pocognoli backing young talent. We need fresh legs after the same old stories.